Articles

Ray Glendening, farm manager, checks the operation of an irrigation system at the University of Missouri's Agroforestry Research Center in New Franklin, Mo., June 26, 2007. The research farm is slated to be the future site of the University of Missouri's Horticulture and Agroforestry Research Center. Currently, $3.2 million is earmarked for the farm with $2.5 million for the multipurpose building paid for with MOHELA money.

By David A. Lieb / Associated Press ¦

On a grassy ridge, with an apple orchard and a row of 20 pine trees as a backdrop, Gov. Matt Blunt’s vision for higher education will come to fruition.

Columbia’s trail system could extend into what is now Boone County. The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously voted to recommend a proposed two-mile extension of Bear Creek Trail from the Boone County Fairgrounds to Oakland Church Road.

That’s what many Columbia residents, as well as people around the world, asked themselves Saturday. The Columbia Climate Change Coalition held a local version of the global Live Earth series, a 24-hour concert raising awareness for the climate change issue. The event, held at Peace Park, had live streaming video of concerts from around the world, as well as performances by local musicians. Between performances, local speakers highlighted major areas of environmental concern, such as alternative energy.

When I read the Declaration of Independence in the Missourian on the morning of our 231st birthday, I had to wonder whether ­— amidst parades, cookouts and fireworks — we’ve forgotten something important.

Ben Smith, 18, spent Independence Day drinking at a friend’s house, said Ashland Police Chief Scott Robbins. At 11:25 a.m., the owner of the house called 911 when he found Smith was not breathing, Robbins said.

Despite the warm temperatures and that most people don’t consider the first part of July to be football season, athletes from throughout the state came to Columbia to participate in this weekend’s Show-Me State football games.